Linden - Review - Hollywood - Los Angeles - The Infatuation
"We say this a lot, but it’s true: Hollywood can never have enough reliable pre-show restaurants. And if you’re in the area looking for a place to grab dinner before heading elsewhere, Linden is a lovely option. The menu at this upscale spot near Sunset and Gower leans Southern with some Caribbean touches mixed in—think creative twists on fried chicken and collard greens, shrimp and grits, jerk duck leg, and macaroni pie, all in large portions. In other words, no one in your group will be running to the Pantages snack counter during intermission. Linden gets crowded during primetime, but there’s a big bar area that’s walk-in only, ideal if you’re meeting a friend for a mezcal cocktail. Food Rundown photo credit: Brant Cox Caesar Brûlée Though the brûlée element doesn't really come through, this is a solid caesar. The breadcrumb-covered romaine hearts are light and crunchy, and the mountain of shaved parmesan adds a soft, gooey texture to every bite. We only wish there was a bit more acidity in the dressing to give the dish more punch. photo credit: Brant Cox Duck Fat Fries No, these are not french toast sticks. They’re real fries and they’re delicious. Each rectangular log is fried in duck fat until absurdly crunchy, but unlike the ones found at every gastropub in 2015, these ones are pillowy soft on the inside with a sweet, slightly gamey flavor. The caviar-topped aioli is a nice touch as well. photo credit: Brant Cox Yellow Tail Crudo Meals at Linden run heavy, so it’s important to pick a few lighter dishes to balance things out. This dish fits the criteria, but it’s ultimately not worth the $38 price. The six cuts of yellowtail dressed in scotch bonnet ponzu are fine, but pretty indistinguishable from any other version around town. photo credit: Brant Cox The Parkway Cutting into this jerk duck leg is so loud and crackly, it sounds like someone crunched up a ball of aluminum foil. The looks you’ll get from nearby tables are out of jealousy. What makes this dish a standout though is coconutty pea risotto on the bottom. We don’t know every risotto in the world, but this is surely a standard-bearer. photo credit: Brant Cox Linden Burger A solid, cheesy bar burger that’s held back by a patty that’s occasionally overcooked. If you usually order your burger cooked medium, maybe ask for it medium-rare. photo credit: Brant Cox Lobster Spicy Reggaetoni Even by Hollywood standards, $68 for a bowl of pasta is eye-popping, so let us start by saying you’re getting a lot of food here. Two adults might struggle to finish this dish. There’s also a lot of buttery lobster meat throughout, which not only validates the price further, but melds well with the rich curry sauce." - Brant Cox
